message for the city manager 3/2011

Our 37-member Citizen Library Advisory Committee is working on the first-ever Santa Clarita Public Library strategic plan.  As part of this important work effort, they are asking residents to complete a short survey about local library services.  If you could take a few moments and complete this survey, we would be most appreciative.  The survey (deadline is March 11)  will assist the committee in creating the new strategic plan and most importantly, will provide our residents with an opportunity to share their values for library services in Santa Clarita.  To complete the survey, please check out the link on our library website at: www.santaclaritalibrary.com.

 Speaking of libraries, we are well underway with the construction of our new 30,000 square foot Old Town Newhall library.  You can watch the construction progress via our “library cam” at www.santaclaritalibrary.com.

One of our work programs for 2011 is the exploration of purchasing the Whittaker Bermite property located in the center of our City.  This 996-acre property, currently in bankruptcy, is in the process of being cleaned of toxins caused by years of use as a munitions production site.  The City Council has voted to spend the next year working Lewis Operating Company to determine if a plan is feasible for the City to purchase this property.   The clean up of the property’s contaminates will continue under the direction of the Department of Toxic Substance Control. Ultimately, the City would like to see this property transformed into desired community uses, inclusive of jobs, infrastructure, and other desirable uses.  Community involvement will be a big part of what occurs over the next year, be sure to look for more information about what’s happening on the City’s website and in the local media.

If you and your family are looking for something to do in Santa Clarita, I encourage you to check out the community calendar.  Local clubs, organizations, non-profits, churches and local government regularly post their events to the City’s online community calendar.  Check it out or post your events at no charge at www.santa-clarita.com.  (Click on the “residents” drop down to access the community calendar)

Thank you for your interest in our community.  I appreciate your participation in helping to make Santa Clarita an amazing place to live, work and play.

Sincerely,

Ken Pulskamp
City Manager

blogger bio

Ken Pulskamp is currently the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita. He has been with the City almost since its inception in 1987 and over the years has served as the Department Head of every City department. He became City Manager in 2002.

The City Manager, in conjunction with the City Council, establishes policies, provides leadership and implements efficient and effective municipal services. The City Manager establishes and maintains appropriate management controls to ensure that all operating departments adhere to and legally mandated policies and regulations. The City Manager also serves as the director of all City personnel, is responsible for the execution of City Council policy, the enforcement of all laws and ordinances, the preparation of the City’s annual budget, public information, and legislative relations.

Thank you for your interest in our great City! Should you wish to contact me directly, my email address is kpulskamp@santa-clarita.com.